Press release from Rokycany

This year, for the first time, the KHAMORO World Roma Festival joined ARA ART, the creator of the Pilsen ARA FEST. Together they brought a two-day show to the Rokycan Center.

The city came alive with a rich cultural experience. The one on Thursday, July 8, presented a children's ensemble composed of Rokycan dancers, musicians and singers under the name of Loľi Ruža, dedicated to maintaining Romani artistic traditions. In beautiful costumes, the ensemble introduced traditional Romani songs and dances, opening a literary-musical event held at the Rokycany public library.

But the evening wasn't dedicated to music only. Ilona Ferková, who, among other things, devoted herself to literary work, found a women’s choir performing old Romani songs and coordinated a project for Romani kindergartens, presented her writing work in Rokycany public library.. She is currently a member of Manushe Women’s group and a writer. Her daughter, Lenka Ferkova, who is an active member of the women's choir, performed with guitarist Marek Miko

As part of Friday's program (July 9), visitors were delighted by the domestic but at the same time internationally acclaimed band Kale. Unfortunately, no longer performing with the legendary singer Vera Bílá, but with their timeless songs and unique arrangements. After Kale, Rokycan fans saw a performance of the Romani singer, accordionist and pianist Mário Bihári with Bachtale Apsa band and actress/singer Bára Hrzánová, who is well known for her leading roles in Prague’s theaters and Na Kloboučka show, where she performed with Věra Bílá and Zuzana Navarová.

The Rokycan Festival has been a great addition to the annual Pilsen ARA FEST, as well as a reminder of the spectacular show that KHAMORO has brought to Pilsen in 2015.